Snowskate Ambition: A Guide to Skateboarding on Snow

TEAM SERIES VS PREMIUM SERIES. WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?

The Premium models have the same 7-ply Canadian maple construction as the Team models, but they also feature a top concave for better control and board feel. They also feature graphics on the bottom of the deck and come in unique shapes and sizes to suit all riding styles. While less expensive, the Team models still have all the key features that make Ambition famous for snowskates.

SNOWSKATE SIZE. HOW IMPORTANT IS IT?

While height and foot size can be taken into consideration when choosing a snowskate, it's mostly a matter of personal preference. A smaller deck is generally easier to flip and has a more skate-like feel, while larger models offer more stability when riding and better balance on rails. That said, all Ambition snowskates are designed to be ridden the same way.

FORMS AS2 / AS3 / AS4. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?

While the tips share the same lean angle, specific snowskate shapes differ in the radius of the tail and nose cut.
AS2 : The wider cutting radius helps your foot sit comfortably on the tip of the tail or nose, while providing increased power.
AS3 : The rounder profile mimics the feel of skating on snow and helps release flip tricks more easily.
AS4 : Combines the squared tail of the AS2 with the rounded nose of the AS3 to create a balance between both shapes, with a slightly old school look.

HOW LONG DOES A SNOWSKATE LAST?

The lifespan of a snowskate depends on how you use it. Jumping down stairs will cause more wear and tear on your board than a backyard box. Some riders use the same deck for years, while more aggressive riders change it every season. Typically, a snowskate will be replaced because it has become too slow and scratched. Quick base maintenance and easy topsheet repairs will significantly extend the life of a deck. However, don't worry too much and have fun!

WHERE CAN I USE A SNOWSKATE?

Snow falls everywhere and covers the entire landscape, which is why snowskating is so much fun. Grab a shovel and make your way through your backyard building ramps, boxes, and rails, or simply bomb down some hills in the woods or your favorite spot like your local skatepark...the world is yours! You can search for videos for inspiration, and remember, anything goes when it comes to having fun!

HOW CAN I GENERATE SPEED?

During your first attempts, it might be helpful to gain speed from a downhill ramp or a bump. It's a great way to get used to the basics of riding and to attack kickers and rails effortlessly in your backyard. That said, pro riders often ride on flat surfaces, whether in a skate park or on the street. With practice, you'll learn to throw yourself down and generate momentum, just like you would on a skateboard.

CAN I PUSH WITH A SNOWSKATE?

On some days, the conditions will be just right and the roads will be covered in snow, allowing you to ride just like you would on a regular skateboard. That said, those days are the exception, and you can't rely on a snowskate for transportation. Pro riders only push off with their feet when carving lines or tracks in fresh snow, but not to initially generate speed.

ARE SNOWSKATES ALLOWED ON THE SKI SLOPES?

The general rule is that single-level snowskates are not allowed on the slopes. By design, they do not meet resort requirements because they lack edges and bindings.

DO I NEED XTREME GRIP?

Xtreme Grip is highly recommended for riders with skateboarding experience. The added grip is truly a game-changer when it comes to trick execution. Beginners will appreciate the standard foam grip right away, as they learn to descend hills and tackle their first obstacles. As they transition to skateboard-inspired tricks, the Xtreme Grip becomes the key to their snowskating experience. It also protects the Eva Foam topsheet, extending the life of your deck.

HOW LONG DOES XTREME GRIP LAST?

Xtreme Grip is very durable, often outlasting the snowskate itself. Depending on their arrangement, the pieces can be subject to impact, but reattaching them is a quick and easy solution. Most riders transfer their Xtreme Grip with a heat gun when swapping decks from old to new.

WILL XTREME GRIP RUIN MY SHOES?

While it may look like it might tear your shoes after a few kickflips, Xtreme Grip actually barely wears out your shoes, especially compared to traditional skate griptape. You can use the same shoes for years when snowskating with Xtreme Grip.

WHAT SHOES SHOULD I WEAR?

We recommend using a good pair of warm winter skate boots when snowskating. These give you the right feel for the deck and are definitely the best combination with Xtreme Grip. Shoes with a molded sole are a good option when riding without Xtreme Grip due to their grippy soles, but be aware that they wear out the grip foam much faster than traditional skate shoes. Boots are similar, and their bulk and thickness significantly reduce the feel of the board. That said, remember that shoes are a matter of preference and not so crucial if you're just starting out.

HOW DO YOU REPAIR FOAM GRIP?

When the deck hits the ground with force in a certain way, snow can be pushed between the board and the grip tape, causing damage to the foam. These problems are often caused by riders using their board as a shovel, which, while tempting, is a terrible idea. We recommend fixing the grip tape before the situation gets worse, using most types of wood glue. Be careful with very tight shoes or boots, which often damage the EVA foam and cause scratches.

HOW DO YOU FIX A SLOW OR SCRATCHED SNOWSKATE?

The inevitable scratches caused by rocks, curbs, or sharp edges of obstacles will eventually slow down your deck. Luckily, a quick scrape from nose to tail with a utility knife or razor blade will get your board back up to speed. Performed regularly, this maintenance tip and knowing where you're going will significantly extend the life of your deck. Watch this video for instructions.

CAN I APPLY WAX TO REPAIR?

Ambition Snowskates feature a non-porous, extruded base material that won't hold wax. While using wax will help temporarily, it's not recommended, as they chose this base material to keep maintenance to a minimum and let riders focus on having fun. Scraping your base as described above will be more efficient and less time-consuming.

ON CAVEMAN-SHOP.IT YOU CAN FIND YOUR IDEAL SNOWSKATE!

We are the exclusive Italian retailers for the Canadian brand Ambition Snowskates . Our online shop offers premium and team models for beginners and experienced riders.